The pensioner, from Newark, Nottinghamshire, smashed John Sifford’s 2005 record of 16lb 8.37oz with his 17lb 15.5oz specimen at the Harrogate Flower Show.

Mr Glazebrook, who has grown several past prize-winners, was thrilled to have finally won the coveted title.

“Obviously I am over the moon,” said the 67-year-old. “Winning these competitions is great, but in the vegetable growing world, the heaviest onion title is the one to have.”

The former chartered surveyor picked up £500 for winning first prize at the show, and a further £1,000 for setting the new world record.

He currently holds three other world records – heaviest potato, heaviest parsnip, and longest beetroot.